Mexican Bishop Bans Laypeople from Assuming Clerical Roles in Liturgy
Bishop Carlos Enrique Samaniego López of Texcoco issued the decree on 10 August, citing “irregular practices” that distort the priestly ministry and the sacred character of liturgical acts.
It prohibits former seminarians, religious, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion and other faithful not instituted in the stable ministry of acolyte from presiding over celebrations of the Word, funeral rites, sacramentals or other liturgical acts proper to ordained ministers.
It also forbids non-clerics from wearing the alb or “any sacred ornament or vestment reserved uniquely and exclusively to the clergy”, both within and outside liturgical celebrations.
The bishop expressed concern about celebrations held in halls, gardens and other unapproved locations by “pseudo ordained ministers” and “celebrants”.
“I ask all the Christian faithful of the Diocese of Texcoco to remain alert, so as not to be deceived by false celebrants who simulate liturgical acts,” the bishop wrote, urging Catholics to approach their parish when seeking pastoral care.
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